Former Chancellor Angela Merkel publicly criticized CDU party leader Friedrich Merz for collaborating with the far-right AfD to pass a stricter migration motion. This move broke a previous pledge by Merz not to seek parliamentary majorities with AfD support, a decision Merkel deemed wrong and a setback for national political responsibility. Merkel’s condemnation, a rare public intervention, is considered potentially damaging to Merz’s standing within the CDU and could significantly impact the upcoming election. The controversial vote marks the first time the Bundestag passed a measure with AfD votes, highlighting growing divisions within the German political landscape.
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Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed disappointment and a sense of abandonment regarding Brexit, believing that David Cameron’s negotiations with Eurosceptics ultimately fueled the Leave campaign’s success. She questioned whether further concessions could have prevented the UK’s departure, suggesting that the underlying desire of some to leave the EU was insurmountable. Merkel also commented on Vladimir Putin’s misunderstanding of freedom and his use of external enemies to consolidate power, contrasting this with her own refugee policy based on German values. Finally, she noted her observations of the transactional approach of Donald Trump’s administration, while recognizing his understanding of the mutual benefits of transatlantic partnerships.
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In her memoir, *Freedom*, Angela Merkel reflects on her relationship with Donald Trump, initially misjudging him as “completely normal” before recognizing his emotional nature and affinity for authoritarian leaders. She describes Trump’s transactional approach to international relations, contrasting it with her own focus on factual cooperation. Merkel also discusses her interactions with Vladimir Putin, acknowledging some validity in his criticisms while highlighting his manipulative tactics and ultimately his role in the Ukraine invasion. The book covers her political career and includes a belated endorsement of Kamala Harris for president.
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John Q. Hosedrinker